How Do Dentures Work?

Dentures make it possible for patients with missing teeth to both speak fluently and chew food correctly. In cases where patients loose teeth, the muscles in their face will loosen and relax around the jaw area, this results in an aged appearance. When dentures are installed, they fill out the face reducing this aged appearance as well as encouraging the muscles around the jaw to tighten up. Dentures are designed to match the patients natural teeth almost exactly and in most cases are impossible to notice.

What Types Of Dentures Are Available?

Conventional dentures: Most people are familiar with this type of denture. They are removable and are carefully designed to fit the patients mouth perfectly. Before they can be installed, any remaining natural teeth must be extracted and the tissues in the mouth are allowed to heal completely.

Immediate dentures: These dentures are applied right after a patients remaining teeth have been extracted. We will measure your mouth and make a model of your jaw in order to make these dentures. While your mouth is healing, you may have fewer teeth and these dentures may need to be adjusted as your mouth heals.

Overdentures: As the name suggests, this type of denture fits over natural teeth once we have treated them. These dentures are employed in cases where we opt to save natural teeth in order to firmly hold the denture in place and/or preserve bone in the jaw.

Dentures can take a little bit of time before you become accustomed to them and they start to feel comfortable. It will take some time for your cheek muscles to learn how to hold the dentures correctly. Some patients may also encounter mild soreness or irritation. Dentures can also affect your saliva flow. If any of these issues persist, visit us right away.

How To Take Care Of New Dentures?

Here are our top tips for ensuring you maximize the life of your dentures.
Before brushing, rinse your dentures in warm water to remove food particles.
Gently brush your dentures with a bristle brush or a non-abrasive cleaner to clean the surface of the dentures.
Ensure all food particles are removed from your gums, cheeks, tongue and roof of mouth by comprehensively brushing your entire mouth.
When you are not using your dentures, be sure to keep them in a safe place and in water to ensure they do not warp.
In some cases, you may opt to use special denture adhesives, such as powders, creams, pads or liquids. Be sure to carefully follow all manufacturer’s instructions to ensure no damage is caused or injuries sustained. Be sure to only buy cleaners or adhesives which carry the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

If you have encountered severe or even mild tooth loss, contact our office in Beavercreek, Ohio.